Guide to Choosing the Right Toothpaste & Toothbrush for Dogs

Dental care is essential for your cat’s and dog’s overall health. Poor oral hygiene can lead to gum disease, tooth loss, and systemic infections.

There are several ways to keep your pet's teeth and gums healthy. Brushing daily is best with a pet safe tooth paste, like CET toothpaste is one of the best ways to keep your pet’s teeth and gums healthy.. Regular brushing removes plaque and tartar, reducing the risk of dental disease and even pet dermatology issues linked to oral infections. Healthy teeth support better nutrition, fresh breath, and overall wellness. Never use human toothpaste, as it contains ingredients harmful to dogs. Select pet-safe toothpaste, like CET, that is approved by veterinarians. Flavored options such as poultry or peanut butter can make brushing more enjoyable for your dog.

Selecting a Toothbrush

Toothbrushes designed for dogs come in various sizes and styles. Finger brushes are ideal for small or nervous dogs, while traditional brushes work well for larger breeds. Soft bristles prevent gum irritation while effectively removing plaque.

Making Brushing a fun routine really helps. There is a helpful video on our Facebook page. Start slowly to build your dog’s comfort and trust. Brush a few teeth at a time, offering praise or treats as a reward. Consistency is key, aiming for daily brushing or at least several times a week.

Other dental care options you can do at home: There are safe and effective chews by CET. Other options including adding either Science diet's T/D dental diet or dental diet by royal canin’s dental diet daily (as long as your pet is not on a specific prescription diet or hypoallergenic foods) into your pet's regular food. Other options are Oratene dental rinses and gels. Oral Clenz-a-dent Powder that you can add to the food. Another product you can try is "Healthy Mouth Water Additive". You can refer to the Veterinary Oral Health Council or VOHC's website for a list of approved oral health products.

For dogs, we do not recommend giving them hard chews, like antlers or bones, as this often leads to broken and fractured teeth that often need to be extracted.

When to Seek Professional Care

Even with regular brushing, professional dental exams are essential. Your veterinarian near you can perform cleanings, check for disease, and provide personalized recommendations for toothpaste, brushes, and dental routines.

Protect Your Dog’s Smile and Health

Proper dental care prevents pain, disease, and costly treatments. Contact Butler Veterinary Hospital today to schedule a professional dental checkup for your dog in Butler, Wayne, Bloomingdale, Pompton Lakes, Pompton Plains, Pequannock, Oakland, West Milford, Riverdale, Wanaque, Ringwood, Mountain Lakes, or Kinnelon, NJ. Call us at Butler Veterinary Hospital 973-850-6300 to make an appointment.